An electronic access control device (1) includes a radio communication module (11) for wireless data exchange in a first radio frequency band with a mobile device (2) over a direct wireless communication link (3). The access control device has a controller (12) connected to the wireless radio communication module for generating an access control signal using an access key received from the mobile device. The electronic access control device further includes a proximity detector (13) for detecting a mobile device in defined proximity (P), using a radio frequency in a second radio frequency band, different from the first radio frequency band. The controller is connected to the proximity detector and controls the radio communication module to establish the direct wireless communication link with the mobile device, only if the mobile device is detected in defined proximity of the electronic access control device.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An electronic access control device comprising: a radio communication module configured to perform a wireless data exchange with a mobile device over a direct wireless communication link between the radio communication module and the mobile device; an access confirmation module implemented as an applet comprising computer program code executable on a processor of the mobile device, the computer program code being configured to control the processor of the mobile device to receive from a user of the mobile device a confirmation instruction and to transmit to the radio communication module of the access control device a confirmation message responsive to the confirmation instruction; and a controller connected to the radio communication module and configured to control the radio communication module to transmit the access confirmation module via the direct wireless communication link to the mobile device, and, upon reception of a confirmation message from the mobile device via the direct wireless communication link, to generate an access control signal.
This invention relates to electronic access control systems, specifically addressing the need for secure and user-verified access authorization using mobile devices. The system includes an electronic access control device with a radio communication module that establishes a direct wireless link with a mobile device, enabling secure data exchange. The device also features an access confirmation module, implemented as an applet, which runs on the mobile device's processor. This applet receives a user confirmation instruction (e.g., a button press or biometric verification) and transmits a corresponding confirmation message back to the access control device. The access control device includes a controller that manages the wireless communication, transmits the access confirmation module to the mobile device, and generates an access control signal upon receiving the confirmation message. This ensures that access is granted only after explicit user verification, enhancing security while simplifying the authentication process. The system eliminates the need for physical keys or pre-installed apps, as the confirmation module is dynamically delivered to the mobile device when needed. This approach improves flexibility and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
2. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the access confirmation module is further configured to control the processor of the mobile device to include in the confirmation message an access key; and the controller is further configured to generate the access control signal using the access key included in the confirmation message.
This invention relates to access control systems that use mobile devices for authentication. The problem addressed is the need for secure and efficient access control mechanisms that prevent unauthorized entry while ensuring seamless user verification. The system includes an access control device and a mobile device, where the mobile device communicates with the access control device to grant or deny access. The access control device has a controller that generates an access control signal to permit or restrict entry. A communication module in the device sends a request to the mobile device, which includes a processor and an access confirmation module. The mobile device receives the request and, upon user authentication, the access confirmation module sends a confirmation message back to the access control device. This confirmation message includes an access key, which is a unique identifier or cryptographic token generated by the mobile device to verify the user's identity. The controller in the access control device processes the confirmation message and uses the included access key to generate the access control signal. This ensures that only authorized users with valid access keys can trigger the signal to unlock or open the controlled entry point. The system enhances security by requiring dynamic, time-limited access keys rather than static credentials, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. The mobile device's processor handles the key generation and communication, while the access control device validates the key to authorize entry. This approach improves both security and user convenience in access control applications.
3. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to check whether a signal strength of the mobile device is above a signal strength threshold indicative of the mobile device being located within a defined close range of distance from the access control device, and to transfer the access confirmation module via the direct wireless communication link to the mobile device, if the signal strength of the mobile device is above the signal strength threshold.
Access control systems manage secure entry to restricted areas, often requiring authentication via mobile devices. A challenge in such systems is ensuring secure and efficient communication between the access control device and the mobile device, particularly when the mobile device is in close proximity. Existing solutions may rely on indirect communication methods or lack mechanisms to verify proximity before transferring sensitive access credentials. This invention relates to an access control device that enhances security by verifying the proximity of a mobile device before transferring access credentials. The device includes a controller that establishes a direct wireless communication link with the mobile device. The controller checks whether the signal strength of the mobile device exceeds a predefined threshold, which indicates the device is within a defined close range. If the signal strength meets the threshold, the controller transfers an access confirmation module to the mobile device via the direct wireless link. This ensures that access credentials are only transmitted when the mobile device is physically close, reducing the risk of interception or unauthorized access. The system may also include additional features such as authentication modules and secure communication protocols to further enhance security. By combining proximity verification with direct wireless communication, the invention provides a more secure and reliable method for granting access in controlled environments.
4. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the radio communication module to transmit to the mobile device the executable access confirmation module configured to control the processor of the mobile device to receive the confirmation instruction from the user of the mobile device through at least one of: a finger print sensor of the mobile device and a graphical user interface of the mobile device.
This invention relates to access control systems that use mobile devices for authentication. The problem addressed is the need for secure and user-friendly methods to confirm access permissions on mobile devices, particularly when interacting with access control devices like smart locks or gate systems. The invention involves an access control device with a controller and a radio communication module. The controller is configured to transmit an executable access confirmation module to a mobile device. This module, when executed on the mobile device, enables the user to provide confirmation through biometric input (e.g., fingerprint) or a graphical user interface. The mobile device's processor processes this input and sends the confirmation back to the access control device, which then grants or denies access based on the received instruction. The system enhances security by leveraging the mobile device's built-in authentication methods, reducing reliance on physical keys or separate authentication tokens. It also improves usability by allowing users to confirm access through familiar interfaces, such as fingerprint scanners or touchscreens. The radio communication module ensures seamless wireless interaction between the mobile device and the access control device, supporting protocols like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This approach is particularly useful in smart home or commercial access control applications where convenience and security are critical.
5. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the radio communication module to transmit to the mobile device the executable access confirmation module configured to control the processor of the mobile device to perform at least one of: verifying authorization information entered by the user and verifying of a finger print entered by the user through a finger print sensor of the mobile device; and, upon affirmative verification, to generate an affirmative confirmation message which includes the access key.
This invention relates to an access control device for managing secure entry to a restricted area or system. The device addresses the problem of ensuring secure and convenient authentication for users, particularly when using mobile devices. The access control device includes a controller and a radio communication module for wirelessly interacting with a mobile device. The controller is configured to transmit an executable access confirmation module to the mobile device. This module, when executed by the processor of the mobile device, performs authentication tasks such as verifying authorization information entered by the user or validating a fingerprint scanned through the mobile device's fingerprint sensor. Upon successful verification, the module generates an affirmative confirmation message containing an access key, which is then used to grant the user access to the restricted area or system. The invention enhances security by leveraging the mobile device's built-in authentication capabilities while ensuring seamless and user-friendly access control. The system eliminates the need for separate physical access cards or manual key entry, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and improving efficiency.
6. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the radio communication module is configured to perform the wireless data exchange with the mobile device in a first radio frequency band; and the electronic access control device further comprises a proximity detector configured to detect a presence of the mobile device in defined proximity of the electronic access control device using a radio frequency in a second radio frequency band different from the first radio frequency band; and the controller is connected to the proximity detector and further configured to control the radio communication module to establish the direct wireless communication link with the mobile device, upon detection of the mobile device by the proximity detector in the defined proximity of the electronic access control device.
An electronic access control device is designed to manage secure access to restricted areas by interacting with mobile devices. The device includes a radio communication module that performs wireless data exchange with a mobile device in a first radio frequency band, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, to authenticate and authorize access. To enhance security and efficiency, the device also incorporates a proximity detector that operates in a second, distinct radio frequency band, such as ultra-wideband (UWB) or near-field communication (NFC), to detect the presence of a mobile device within a defined proximity range. Upon detecting the mobile device in this proximity, the controller activates the radio communication module to establish a direct wireless communication link, enabling seamless and secure data exchange for access control. This dual-band approach ensures that the device can efficiently detect nearby mobile devices while maintaining secure communication for authentication purposes. The system improves user convenience by automating the connection process when a user approaches the access point, reducing the need for manual interaction while enhancing security through proximity-based triggering.
7. The access control device of claim 6 , wherein the radio communication module is configured to perform the wireless data exchange with the mobile device over a short distance communication link of several meters, particularly over a distance of up to ten meters; and the proximity detector is configured to detect the presence of the mobile device in close proximity of the electronic access control device of a few centimeters, particularly within a distance of up to ten centimeters.
An electronic access control device includes a radio communication module and a proximity detector for secure and localized interaction with a mobile device. The radio communication module enables wireless data exchange over a short-range communication link, specifically within a range of several meters, particularly up to ten meters. This allows for secure communication between the access control device and the mobile device over a moderate distance. Additionally, the proximity detector is configured to detect the presence of the mobile device in very close proximity to the access control device, specifically within a few centimeters, particularly up to ten centimeters. This dual-range functionality ensures that the device can both communicate with the mobile device at a moderate distance and verify its immediate presence for enhanced security. The combination of these features allows for secure authentication and access control, where the proximity detection confirms the physical presence of the authorized mobile device before granting access. This system is particularly useful in environments where both short-range communication and precise proximity verification are required for secure access control.
8. The access control device of claim 6 , wherein the proximity detector comprises an RFID reader and is configured to detect the presence of the mobile device by emitting an electromagnetic field pulse, detecting a return signal during emission of the electromagnetic field pulse, and using the return signal to detect the presence of the mobile device.
This invention relates to access control systems that use proximity detection to authenticate mobile devices. The problem addressed is the need for secure and efficient access control mechanisms that can verify the presence of authorized mobile devices without requiring physical contact or manual input. The access control device includes a proximity detector that detects the presence of a mobile device. The proximity detector comprises an RFID reader, which emits an electromagnetic field pulse to interrogate nearby devices. During the emission of this pulse, the RFID reader detects a return signal from the mobile device. The return signal is analyzed to confirm the presence of the mobile device, enabling access control decisions based on this detection. The system ensures secure access by leveraging RFID technology, which allows for short-range, wireless communication. The electromagnetic field pulse and return signal interaction provide a reliable method for verifying the proximity of the mobile device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. This approach eliminates the need for physical contact or manual authentication steps, improving convenience while maintaining security. The invention is particularly useful in environments where quick and secure access control is required, such as smart locks, secure facilities, or automated entry systems. By integrating RFID-based proximity detection, the system enhances both user experience and security.
9. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the radio communication module comprises a Bluetooth transceiver, and the controller is further configured to control the Bluetooth transceiver to establish the direct wireless communication link with the mobile device by performing a Bluetooth connection process.
This invention relates to an access control device with enhanced wireless communication capabilities, specifically for secure and direct interactions with mobile devices. The device addresses the problem of unreliable or insecure wireless connections in access control systems, which can lead to unauthorized access or system failures. The access control device includes a radio communication module with a Bluetooth transceiver and a controller. The controller is configured to manage the Bluetooth transceiver to establish a direct wireless communication link with a mobile device by executing a Bluetooth connection process. This ensures a secure and stable connection for authentication, authorization, or data exchange between the access control device and the mobile device. The Bluetooth transceiver enables short-range, low-power communication, making it suitable for environments where proximity-based access control is required. The controller may also handle encryption, pairing protocols, and error recovery to maintain secure and uninterrupted communication. This design improves the reliability and security of wireless access control systems, particularly in applications like smart locks, gate systems, or building entry points where mobile devices are used for authentication.
10. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the access control device further comprises an electronic lock, and the controller is connected to the electronic lock and further configured to supply the access control signal to the electronic lock for controlling the electronic lock to perform an unlock function.
This invention relates to access control devices designed to manage and secure entry to restricted areas. The device includes a controller that processes authentication data, such as credentials or biometric information, to determine whether access should be granted. If the authentication is successful, the controller generates an access control signal. The device further includes an electronic lock connected to the controller. Upon receiving the access control signal, the electronic lock performs an unlock function, allowing entry to the secured area. The system ensures secure and automated access control, reducing the need for physical keys or manual intervention. The electronic lock may be integrated into doors, gates, or other barriers, and the controller can be programmed to enforce access policies, such as time-based restrictions or multi-factor authentication. This invention improves security and convenience in environments like residential, commercial, or industrial settings.
11. The access control device of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to define an access status reflective of the access control signal, and to control the radio communication module to transmit the access status to the mobile device.
This invention relates to access control systems, specifically devices that manage entry permissions using radio communication with mobile devices. The problem addressed is the need for real-time feedback between an access control device and a mobile device to confirm access status, improving user experience and security. The access control device includes a controller, a radio communication module, and an access control mechanism. The controller processes an access control signal, which may be received from a mobile device or another system, to determine whether to grant or deny access. The radio communication module facilitates wireless communication with the mobile device, enabling bidirectional data exchange. The access control mechanism, such as a lock or barrier, physically restricts or permits entry based on the controller's decision. The controller is further configured to define an access status that reflects the outcome of the access control signal—whether access was granted, denied, or requires additional verification. This status is transmitted via the radio communication module to the mobile device, providing immediate feedback to the user. This feature enhances transparency and allows the mobile device to update its interface or trigger further actions based on the access status. The system may also include authentication mechanisms, such as biometric verification or credential validation, to ensure secure access control. The invention improves upon prior systems by integrating real-time status reporting, reducing uncertainty for users and improving system reliability.
12. A mobile device comprising: a radio communication module configured to perform a wireless data exchange with an access control device over a direct wireless communication link between the radio communication module and the access control device; and a processor connected to the radio communication module and configured to control the radio communication module to receive from the access control device, via the direct wireless communication link, an executable access confirmation module implemented as an applet comprising computer program code executable on the processor of the mobile device and configured to control the processor of the mobile device to receive from a user of the mobile device a confirmation instruction and, responsive to the confirmation instruction, to transmit a confirmation message via the direct wireless communication link to the access control device, enabling the access control device to generate an access control signal.
This invention relates to mobile device-based access control systems, addressing the need for secure, direct wireless communication between a mobile device and an access control device without relying on intermediary networks. The system includes a mobile device with a radio communication module that establishes a direct wireless link with an access control device, such as a door lock or gate controller. The mobile device receives an executable access confirmation module (applet) from the access control device over this direct link. This applet runs on the mobile device's processor and prompts the user to provide a confirmation instruction, such as a biometric input or PIN. Upon receiving the instruction, the applet transmits a confirmation message back to the access control device via the same direct link. The access control device then generates an access control signal, such as unlocking a door or granting entry. The system ensures secure, real-time access control without requiring cloud-based authentication or network connectivity, reducing latency and improving reliability. The direct wireless communication link may use protocols like Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Near Field Communication (NFC), ensuring low-power, short-range operation suitable for access control applications.
13. An access control method, the method comprising: controlling by a controller of an electronic access control device a radio communication module of the electronic access control device to establish with a mobile device a direct wireless communication link for a wireless data exchange; transmitting an executable access confirmation module from the access control device via the direct wireless communication link to the mobile device, the executable access control module being implemented as an applet comprising computer program code; executing the computer program code of the executable access confirmation module by a processor of the mobile device; and the computer program code of the executable access confirmation module controlling the processor of the mobile device such that the processor receives from a user of the mobile device a confirmation instruction, generates a confirmation message, responsive to the confirmation instruction, and transmits the confirmation message via the direct wireless communication link to the radio communication module of the access control device, enabling the access control device to generate an access control signal.
This invention relates to electronic access control systems that use mobile devices for authentication and authorization. The problem addressed is the need for secure, direct communication between an access control device and a mobile device to verify user identity and grant access without relying on external networks or pre-installed applications. The method involves an electronic access control device with a controller and a radio communication module. The controller directs the radio module to establish a direct wireless communication link with a mobile device, such as Bluetooth or NFC, for secure data exchange. The access control device then transmits an executable access confirmation module, implemented as an applet containing computer program code, to the mobile device over this direct link. The mobile device's processor executes this code, which prompts the user to provide a confirmation instruction, such as a biometric input or PIN. The applet generates a confirmation message based on this input and sends it back to the access control device via the direct wireless link. The access control device processes this message to generate an access control signal, such as unlocking a door or gate. This approach ensures secure, real-time authentication without requiring pre-installed apps or network connectivity, improving reliability and security in access control systems.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the method further comprises the executable access confirmation module controlling the processor of the mobile device such that the processor includes in the confirmation message an access key stored in the mobile device, enabling the access control device to generate the access control signal using the access key.
This invention relates to secure access control systems using mobile devices. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and authenticated access to controlled areas or systems, particularly where mobile devices are used for authentication. The invention provides a method for enhancing security by incorporating an access key stored on the mobile device into the confirmation message sent to an access control device. This access key is used by the access control device to generate an access control signal, which grants or denies access based on the validity of the key. The method involves an executable access confirmation module on the mobile device that controls the processor to include the stored access key in the confirmation message. This ensures that only authorized devices with the correct access key can trigger the access control signal, improving security against unauthorized access attempts. The system may also include a user interface for receiving user input to initiate the access request and a communication module for transmitting the confirmation message to the access control device. The access control device processes the received access key and generates the appropriate access control signal, such as unlocking a door or granting system access. This method enhances security by requiring both the mobile device and the access key to be present, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the method further comprises the controller of the electronic access control device checking whether a signal strength of the mobile device is above a signal strength threshold indicative of the mobile device being located within a defined close range of distance from the access control device, and transferring the access confirmation module via the direct wireless communication link to the mobile device, if the signal strength of the mobile device is above the signal strength threshold.
Electronic access control systems often require secure and efficient methods for granting access to authorized users. A common challenge is ensuring that access permissions are transferred reliably to a user's mobile device, particularly when the device is in close proximity to the access control device. Existing solutions may lack mechanisms to verify proximity before transferring access credentials, leading to potential security risks or failed access attempts. This invention addresses these issues by implementing a proximity-based access control method. The system includes an electronic access control device with a controller and a mobile device capable of direct wireless communication. The controller monitors the signal strength of the mobile device to determine if it is within a defined close range of the access control device. If the signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold, indicating close proximity, the controller transfers an access confirmation module to the mobile device via a direct wireless communication link. This ensures that access permissions are only transmitted when the device is sufficiently close, enhancing security and reliability. The method may also involve additional steps such as authenticating the mobile device and verifying its authorization before transferring the access confirmation module. By dynamically assessing proximity and conditionally transferring access credentials, the system improves both security and user convenience in access control scenarios.
16. The method of claim 14 , wherein the method further comprises detecting by a proximity detector of the electronic access control device a presence of the mobile device in defined proximity of the electronic access control device using a radio frequency in a second radio frequency band; and the controller of the electronic access control device controlling the radio communication module of the electronic access control device to establish the direct wireless communication link with the mobile device in a first radio frequency band different than the second radio frequency band, upon detection of the mobile device by the proximity detector in the defined proximity of the electronic access control device.
This invention relates to electronic access control systems that use wireless communication between a mobile device and an access control device. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and secure wireless communication between a mobile device and an access control device, particularly when the mobile device is in close proximity to the device. The system includes an electronic access control device with a proximity detector, a radio communication module, and a controller. The proximity detector uses a radio frequency in a second frequency band to detect the presence of a mobile device within a defined proximity range. Upon detection, the controller activates the radio communication module to establish a direct wireless communication link with the mobile device in a first frequency band, which is different from the second frequency band. This dual-band approach ensures that the proximity detection and secure communication occur in separate frequency bands, improving reliability and security. The proximity detector may use short-range radio frequencies, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), to detect the mobile device, while the communication link may operate in a different band, such as Wi-Fi or a proprietary frequency, for data exchange. This separation prevents interference and enhances the system's robustness. The method ensures that communication is only established when the mobile device is within the defined proximity, reducing unauthorized access risks. The system is particularly useful in environments where secure and efficient access control is required, such as smart locks, building entry systems, or vehicle access control.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention.
June 18, 2015
October 2, 2018
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